Posted: November 5, 2024
As you search for long-term care for an aging loved one, you’ll likely find several options for memory support, often known as memory care. This kind of older adult care varies in terms of amenities, care, staff training, and costs. It’s becoming more and more popular, as is assisted living. But what are the differences between memory care vs. assisted living? Here’s what you should know about the unique benefits each level of care provides and how to choose the best option for your loved one.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, around 70% of adults older than 65 will need long-term care at some point in their lives. At a residential assisted living community, team members are always available to provide around-the-clock care and support whenever needed. Residents can receive personal help with activities of daily living (ADLs), including bathing, getting dressed, and taking medications.
Assisted living helps older adults where they need it, while also offering independence, companionship, and security. This level of care is designed for those who seek help with everyday self-care activities but also desire to maintain their freedom and independence.
Assisted living communities typically consist of townhomes, apartments, or condominiums where every resident or couple has their own home. Residents here can take care of themselves but might need extra support with some daily activities. Residents of the assisted living neighborhood can get as much or as little assistance as they need.
Cappella of Grand Junction offers nutritious meals, communal spaces, and transportation to social outings. Residents can continue to live the rich lives they’ve always had while staying connected to the community they love. They can attend events like game nights, art classes, musical entertainment, exercise classes, and more.
Our community also provides a range of services and amenities, such as:
Cappella of Grand Junction offers older adults the support they need alongside a full calendar of programs focused on social, intellectual, physical, spiritual, and purposeful wellness. Outings and other events help residents meet each other and stay active and engaged with the community, supporting their overall mental and physical health.
Many people who require long-term care will experience cognitive changes or memory loss. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates more than 55 million people worldwide have dementia, with nearly 10 million new cases diagnosed a year.
Like assisted living, memory support communities offer help with activities of daily living. Additionally, team members in our memory support community are specially trained to understand the cognitive changes that residents may be experiencing in order to best support them. They’ll engage every resident where they are and work to keep them connected to each other and to their loved ones despite any cognitive changes.
Memory support communities and assisted living share many of the same features, including private apartments and communal areas. However, memory support provides more specialized assisted living to meet the needs of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. For instance, memory care communities include additional safety features to ensure those living with cognitive challenges are secure and cared for under 24/7 supervision.
Life enrichment offered in memory support communities tends to have a therapeutic focus. For instance, they may provide music therapy to help those with their memory, since music has been known to elicit memories and enhance communication for older adults.
Cappella of Grand Junction’s memory support care partners also have the expertise to effectively learn what residents need and want and anticipate those to help prevent things like aggression and wandering. They can also provide a balance of independence and support, offering compassionate care as needed.
Memory support and assisted living communities provide many of the same services, including:
Assisted living and memory support communities will also provide enriching activities for older adults, such as exercise classes, music, or art therapy.
So, what is the difference between memory care and assisted living? Expect the following differences between the two:
There can be an overlap between assisted living and memory care. A person experiencing mild cognitive changes can often get the help they need while living in an assisted living neighborhood. If they have chosen a community with both levels of care, they can transition to memory care whenever they need to.
Similarly, memory care may not be enough for someone who has medical conditions alongside their cognitive changes, or whose cognitive changes are progressing. They may need to transition to skilled nursing care in order to get the level of support they need. Finding a community that allows people to move between different types of care can help older adults as their needs change.
Assisted living is an excellent option if your loved one needs extra help – such as assistance with everyday tasks – but can mostly live on their own. It’s also a great idea if your loved one wants to stay connected to a vibrant community, learn new things, and stay active.
If your older family member is living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia or brain disorders and requires support most of the time, memory support may be your best option.
While assisted living is a wonderful option for older adults seeking freedom and fun in their retirement years, many opt to transition to memory support when they begin showing signs of memory impairment. You can work with their doctor to understand the best time to make this decision.
Before choosing the right type of community, consider the following factors:
When narrowing down living options for your loved one, consider moving to a community that can meet all of their changing healthcare needs. While one community might seem like a great fit now, it may not be in the future. Many assisted living communities include memory support programs in the same setting to make the transition easier. These communities allow your loved one to continue enjoying their community and live a meaningful, fulfilling life.
If you have a family member with a new Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis, you may want to consider a community that offers both assisted living and memory support. These programs provide enrichment and excitement in a safe, supported setting.
Cappella of Grand Junction provides assisted living and memory support all in one place, allowing your loved one to live a peaceful, maintenance-free lifestyle. Residents can appreciate assistance with everyday tasks, exciting social activities, and exceptional memory care in one setting. Our signature programs recognize the values of each resident, providing social, intellectual, physical, purposeful, and spiritual support to meet all five pillars of healthy aging.
For more information or to schedule a tour, we invite you to contact us today.
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